BOOK REVIEW: GOD's Library (by Joe Paprocki)

First Things First

For one who is unfamiliar with the Bible, it can be an intimidating thing; and most of the books about the Bible aren't much better. A massive tome to explain a massive tome seems to defeat the purpose, so the first thing you'll notice about Paprocki's book is its size. At a mere 122 pages, including the Appendices and Bibliography, it wouldn't take long to read regardless of the author's style. Yet Paprocki makes it even easier by using clear, plain English geared towards the average Catholic, not the studied theologian.

Generally speaking, Catholics don't walk around quoting scripture, and it is easy to be intimidated by people who do. So right out of the chute, Paprocki tackles the most important problem many Catholics face: bibliaphobia. He discusses this fear of the Bible, conjectures on why it exists, and then explains how he's going to help the reader overcome it through the course of the book.

Creating a Foundation

GOD's Library provides a good, basic understanding of the Bible, its structure, its contents, and the basic strategies for understanding and interpreting it. Paprocki takes nothing for granted. He explains everything from biblical abbreviations to the different major sections and their importance. In a concise and straight-forward manner the reader is introduced to the Catholic understanding of Biblical truth and shown how to use commentaries, concordances and other resources to eventually dive deeper into the scriptures.

GOD's Library would make an excellent gift for someone entering the Church this Easter, or for the young person being Confirmed. Having a solid understanding of the Bible -- the inspired word of God -- is an excellent foundation to build a Christian life upon. And GOD's Library, by Joe Paprocki, will help you achieve that solid foundation.

Copyright 2005 by Brandon Jubar
All rights reserved.